Key cutting machine



Oct. 17, 1939.- s. SEGAL KEY cu'rrmc MAQHINE 5 Sheets-Sheet 1 Filed Aug. 13, .1936

INVENTOR ATTORNEY Oct. 17, 1939.

S. SEGAL KEY CUTTING MACHINE 5 Sheets-Sheet 2 Filed Aug. 13, 1936 mu @Q ATTORNEY 0d. 17, 1939. SEGAL KEY CUTTING MACHINE Filed Aug. 13, 1936 5 Sheets-Sheet 3 ATTORNE FNVENTOR M Oct. 17, 1939. s. SEGAL KEY CUTTING MACHINE 5 Sheets-Sheet 4 ATTORN EY Filed Aug. 13, 1936 Z INVEN Patented Oct. 17, 1939 UNITED STATES FATENT OFFICE 14 Claims.

The present invention relates to a key cutting machine of the type having a slidable and swingable carriage characterized by spaced clamps or vices for remiov'ably sustaining a previously cut key and a blank key in a predetermined relation in respect to a gage and cutting wheel. More particularly however the present invention deals with a key duplicating or cutting machine adapted to be manually or automatically con trolled for cutting a blank key according to a predetermined combination of bitings of previosuly cut or master key. One object of the invention is realized in the provision of a simplified and improved key duplicating machine 15 having swingable latch means for conveniently and disconnectably coupling the shiftable carriage to a reciprocating drive. The invention has as a further object the provision of novel settable means associated with each of the spaced vices of the horizontally shiftable carriage for appropriately supporting an inserted key within a respective vice. The invention also contemplates as an object the provision of spaced standards adjustable longitudinally relative to the supporting means or casing of the key duplicating machine for supporting gaging means adapted to be adjusted transversely of the casing and appropriately clamped in an adjusted set position. lhe invention has as a further object to provide a swingable clutch disconnectably associated with the slidable carriage and adapted to yieldingly sustain spaced clamped keys of the vices of the reciprocable carriage during automatic operation of the latter against a set gage or guide and its rotatable cutter. The invention further contemplates as an object the provision of spaced shaft supporting bearings defining a gap for removably receiving a cutter adapted to be frictionally sustained between a sleeve of one of the bearings and the driving shaft journalled in the other hearing. The invention further comprehendsas an object the provision of an improved cutting machine for readily processing various types of blank keys in accordance with a certain order of bitings or grooves of a master key. The invention has as a further object the provision of a master template adapted to be utilized in place of a master or previously cut key in the matter of conforming a blank key to a. predetermined combination of bitings.

The invention is applicable generally to key cutting or duplicating machines which may vary wide y in respect to their general construction but preferably embodies a manually or automatically controlled carriage having clamping means for removably sustaining a pair of keys in a predetermined relation in respect to gaging means and a rotatable cutter. Such an improved key cutting machine is illustrated in the accompanying drawings in which: 5 Fig. l is a plan view of the key cutting machine according to my invention, shown partly in sec tion and partly broken away.

Fig. 2 is a front elevational view of Fig. 1, shown partly broken away. 10

Fig. 2a is a side view of a gage or guide utilized in connection with a master key or master template.

Fig. 2b is a side view of another gage for relatively thin keys. 15

Fig. 2c is a side view of an adjustable member for setting an associated gage utilized in connection with a paracentric key.

Fig. 3 is an enlarged transverse sectional view taken on the line 33 of Fig. l. 20

Fig. 4 is a sectional view on the line 44 of Fig. 1.

Fig. 5 is a fragmentary view of the carriage on the line 55 of Fig. 4.

Fig. 6 is a side view of Fig. 1, showing in full 25 lines the disconnectable latch interlocked to reciprocate the carriage for automatic operation of the latter and showing in dash and dot lines, the latch uncoupled to permit manual displacement of the carriage. 30

Fig. 6a is a 'side view of one of the standards for supporting a plurality of gages which are illustrated partly broken away.

Fig. 6b is a plan View of the standard shown in Fig. 6a shown partly in section. 30

Fig. 7 is a view in perspective of the assembly for frictionally and disconnectably supporting the rotatable and spaced cutters.

Fig, 8 is a sectional view taken along the line 9-9 of Fig. 1, however, illustrating a rear or 40 upper shiftable platform supporting a blank paracentric key.

Fig. 9 is a sectional view taken on the line 99 of Fig. 1, showing a blank paracentric key positioned on a shiftable forward or lower plat- 45 form.

Fig. 10 is an enlarged sectional view taken along the line liill of Fig. 11, particularly illustrating a relatively thin blank key supported between and clamped in a vice of the shiftable carriage.

Fig. 11 is a front elevational and fragmentary view of the key cutting machine illustrating spaced and relatively flat keys clamped in the vices. 55

Fig. 12 illustrates an elevational View, partly in section, of a relatively thin cutter and its supporting coupling.

Fig. 13 is a fragmentary elevational view of my cutting machine showing the manner in which bit or barrel keys may be set in a predetermined position.

Fig. 14 is a. view similar to Fig. 13 illustrating the manner in which the sides of the tongue of a bit key may be notched or conformed to a previously cut or master key.

Fig. 15 is a view similar to Fig. 14 showing the manner in which another face of the tongue of a bit key is processed or cut.

Fig. 16 is an enlarged sectional view on the line iii-l6 of Fig. 13.

Fig. 17 is a fragmentary elevational view of the machine in which an adjustable master template is utilized in connection with the gaging means for cutting a blank key according to a predetermined combination of bitings.

Fig. 18 is a. sectional view on the line I8--l8 of Fig. 17, and

Fig. 19 is a side elevational view of the master template.

Referring to the drawings the key duplicating machine is generally denoted IO and comprises a relatively elongated casing or hollow support ll having front and rear shafts I2 and I3 arranged to slide longitudinally of the casing. Particularly however front shaft I2 is slidably and rotatably guided in the longitudinally spaced ears or bearings i i and I5 (Figs. 1 and 2) integral with and extending transversely of the casing. The rear shaft 53 is slidably guided in the sides l6 and I! of the casing.

Extending upwardly from the casing and overhanging one side thereof is a shoulder l8 which has fixedly attached thereto a transversely disposed stub shaft 19 on which is rotatably retained worm gear 20 driven by worm 2! disconnectably coupled to hub 22 of pulley 23 which may be driven by a suitable prime mover, such as, a motor or the like not shown.

When rotated, worm 2| drives gear 20 and cocentrically seemed to the latter is a disc 24. EX- tending from the eccentrically disposed disc 24 and attached to gear 20 is the headed crankpin 25. Rotatably mounted between the head of pin 25 and disc 24 is the collar 25. This collar is operatively connected to the crosshead 21 fixedly anchored to the rear shaft i3. It should be observed that crosshead 21 includes a yoke 28 defining a vertically disposed channel in which the rotatable collar 26 is disposed to cooperate with sides 29 or 30 during rotation of the pulley for reciprocating the rear shaft I 3 relative to the casing ll.

According to the invention the front and rear shafts l2 and I3 may be disconnectably coupled. In this connection, a latch 32 has its rear end swingably mounted on and connected to the overhanging but reversely threaded terminal 33 of the rear shaft I3. The forward portion of latch 32 embodies a groove 34 adapted to removably receive reduced portion 35 of the front shaft l2.

When the latch is closed it lies substantially horizontally. In this relation groove 35 of the latch removably receives the reduced portion 35 of the front shaft, or in other words, parts of shaft l2 straddle or interlock with the sides of the sivingable latch (Figs. 1, 2 and 6) thus removably coupling the front and rear horizontally arranged and slidable shafts l2 and I3. If therefore, the rear shaft is reciprocated, and the front and rear shafts are coupled together as described, the front shaft will be driven by the latch and correspondingly reciprocated.

Fixedly attached to the front shaft I2 is a carriage, broadly denoted 37. This carriage embodies a yoke shaped member comprising a relatively elongated base 38 having at each end an integrally extending overhanging jaw 39 and depending from base 38 is a sleeve or eye 38' which is held anchored to shaft 52 by means of set screws 39.

Associated with each jaw $3 is a swingable clamping jaw 40. Each fixed jaw 39 of the yoke includes an ear 6! straddled by spaced ears A2 of its companion movable jaw lil. Intermed ate ear 4! serves as a bearing for hinge pin 43 appropriately secured to a pair of spaced ears 52 straddling an associated ear 4!. By the present arrangement a swivel connection is provided and therefore a clamping jaw lil may be swung to l wards and away from an associated fixed jaw 33' For purposes of specification a swingable clamping jaw and its fixed jaw 39 may be considered as a vice and as illustrated two are shown, the one at the left hand end for receiving a previously cut or master key being indica ed M; and the one at the right hand end of the carriage for receiving a blank or uncut key to be duplicated or processed being denoted D.

Each of the fixed jaws 39 of the vices M and D includes a longitudinally disposed marginal recess 44 in which is secured a complementary gripping block 35- (Figs. 8 and 16) having a plurality of steps or teeth 46 disposed at an incline. In the case of the left hand vice M, block '35 is longer than the length of its vice and overhangs one side thereof. This overhanging portion is designated -ll (Figs. 1, 11 and 17).

The swingalole jaw ofthe vices M and D has a recess 48 in which the complementary gripping block 49 is appropriately fixed and retained. Each of the blocks 49 is provided with a plurality of steps or teeth 50 disposed at an incline relative to face 5! of its block 9 (see l6). Blocks 45 and 49 of each vice may be considered as complementary gripping members constituting in a closed position of its vice a diverging throat defined by the stepped or toothed facing surfaces which cooperate to grip the shank of a barrel shaped or bit key of the type shown in Figs. 13-16 inclusive. Complementary blocks and 49 of each vice are preferably of relatively hard steel.

For adjusting a swingable jaw ll of each vice in respect to its stationary jaw 39, a winged manipulator 52 is utilized. This manipulator is attached to a threaded shank 53 (Fig. 4) which passes loosely through the swingable jaw 65] and is threadably interconnected with an associated stationary jaw 35. A. helicoidal spring 54 is in part retained within a recess of the swingable jaw and has a portion surrounding threaded shank 53 and abuts the companion fixed jaw 39. Also loosely surrounding shank is a metal resilient washer 55 which is interposed between the manipulator 52 and the swingable jaw. By the present arrangement the swingable jaw of a vice may be readily adjusted relative to its companion fixed jaw by simply operating its manipulator 52 whereby the swingable jaw moves away from or towards the companion fixed jaw. If moved away from the latter spring 54 au"omatically causes the movable jaw to shift away from its jaw and thus open these jaws to permit the insertion of a key. After such insertion has been made, the manipulator is actuated in an opposite direction to close the jaws to adequately grip the inserted key or key blank between the complementary gripping blocks 45 and 49.

Each of the fixed jaws of vices M and D is provided with a central recess 56 (Figs. and 8) in which is slidably guided a pair of superimposed key supporting slidable key rests or platforms 51 and 58. Upper or outer platform 51 is provided with a recess 59 defining a marginal shoulder or lip 88 (Figs. 5 and 9). Lower or inner platform 58 includes an inclined face 8| (Fig. 9) cooperating with a stop lug or abutment 92 of the key gripping block 49' to limit displacement thereof.

Attached to each of the upper platforms 51 of both vices is a finger gripping post 63 which serves as a manipulator for displacing platform 51 relative to its associated platform 58. During such displacement platform 51 is also guided by shank 64 of a bolt 65 which is closely but movably straddled by the side walls of the guide slot 86 in platform 51 and hence the latter may be rectilinearly displaced relative to its companion platform 58 to extend beyond or overhang beyond block 45 of the fixed jaw as illustrated in Fig. 8. Platform 58 is also adapted to be rectilinearly guided by walls of a slot 81 thereof straddling its respective shank 64 which extends transversely of the carriage 31 and which is provided with a stop or pin 68 (Figs. 2 and 4). The heads of the bolts 65 of the vices are normally urged against the slidable platforms 51 by reason of helicoidal springs 69 surrounding a respective shank 84 of the bolts and abutting a front face of the casing I I and its anchored pin 88. By this arrangement platform 51 is held yieldingly against its companion platform 58 and the latter against the bottom wall of recess 58. Accordingly platform 58 may be slidably displaced relative to its companion platform 51. To facilitate this operation each of the platforms 58 is provided with a post 10.

As shown in Figs. 4, 5 and 9, a relatively large paracentric key P is shown clamped between the complementary blocks 45 and 49. In this connection it will be noted that a marginal portion or lip 14 of platform 58 is extended between the blocks 45 and 49. This lip 14 is utilized to support the shank 1| of a relatively large paracentric key P and a side 12 (Fig. 5) of the lip 14 cooperates with lip 13 of the key P to set the latter after which the jaws of the vice may be adjusted to clamp the key in its set position. In Fig. 5, post 18 of platform 58 is in advance of post 83 of platform 51 and hence shoulder 88 is retracted and lip 14 of platform 58 is withdrawn.

According to the showing in Fig. 8, shoulder 68 of platform or key rest 51 is withdrawn and between the gripping blocks 45 and 49. This shoulder is utilized to set and support a relatively smaller paracentric key P. When platform 51 is extended, platform 58 is retracted and vice versa in the use of various sizes of paracentric keys to be clamped.

Where, however, it desired to process very large or thin keys T the latter are set in a predetermined position on the spaced pins or rests 19 secured to and extendingfrom blocks 45 of the fixed jaws (Fig. and in this connection both of the shiftable platforms 51 and 58 of both vices are retracted.

Now referring more particularly to the manner in which the cutting tool or wheel 88 is rotatably carried on shaft 8|, it will be noted, that shaft 8| is provided with an enlarged shaft portion 82 (Fig. '7) which is fixedly attached to hub 22 of the pulley 23 (Figs. 1 and 2). Closely but slidably fitting over enlarged portion 82 of shaft 8| is the worm 2| which is in the form of a sleeve and is provided at one end with circumferentially arranged key means 83 (Fig. 1) removably fitting into cooperating keyway or recess 84 in the hub 22. Consequently if the pulley is rotated in either direction, the worm 2| is also rotated and ultimately therefore crosshead 21 is reciprocated.

The enlarged portion 82 of shaft 8| extends into the fixed bearing 85 of the casing. The enlarged portion 82 forms an annular shoulder 86 with shaft 8| (Fig. '7). This shoulder 88 overhangs one end of bearing 85 (Figs. 1, 2 and 1,7) and serves as an abutment or stop for an adjacent flat side face of the rotatable cutting wheel 80. The worm 2| removably keyed to hub 22 constitutes a spacer between hub 22 and one end of bearing 85 and after assembling shoulder 86 is automatically set to slightly overhang the opposite end of the bearing 85 as shown.

The cutting wheel 88 is closely although removably mounted on shaft 8| and. clamped against annular shoulder 86 by a sleeve or supplementary bearing 81 (Figs. 1 and 17) disposed within and having its ends 88 and 89 overhanging the fixed bearing 98 of the casing. In assembly sleeve 81 is adapted to be slidably displaced longitudinally of bearing 98 and against an adjacent flat face 9|, of the cutting wheel 88 by ring 92 abutting end 88 of the bushing 81 when the clamping nut 93 is moved against the exteriorly threaded ring 94 which in cooperation with ring 92 is utilized to clamp the cutter 95 also closely but removably mounted on shaft 8|. It follows that cutters 88 and 95 are frictionally clamped and bodily rotate with shaft 8| during rotation of the pulley.

In assembling, the enlarged portion 84 of the shaft is first secured to the pulley. Worm 2| is slidably placed over enlarged portion 84 of the shaft and is interlocked with hub 22 of the pulley by theslOt and key connection. Bushing or sleeve 81 is then slidably moved into the fixed bearing 98. Now cutting wheel 88 is interposed between the gap defined by the adjacent ends of the fixed bearings 85 and 98. Subsequently shaft 8| is projected or telescoped through the fixed bearings 85, the central aperture 96 of the cutting wheel 88 and into the supplementary bearing or bushing 81 until the worm 2| strikes bearing 85 at which time shoulder 86 overhangs bearing 85 and is disposed slightly within the gap defined by the fixed and upstanding bearings 85 and. 98.

It will be observed that supplementary bearing 81 is slightly larger than the length of bearing 98 and therefore after cutting gear 88 has been positioned on shaft 8| as described and subse-' quently wheel 95 has been interposed between the clamping rings or washers 92 and 94, the nut 93, if manipulated, will cause ring 92 to abut overhanging end 88 of bushing 81 to slidably shift the latter until its end 89 slightly overhangs the other end of bearing 98 to project slightly into the gap between bearings 85 and 98 to abut against face 9| of the cutting wheel 88. Hence, it is apparent that upon manipulation of the clamping nut 93, cutting wheel 95 will be clamped between the removable rings 92 and 94 and the cutting wheel 88 will be frictionally clamped between the overhanging portion 89 of bushing 81 and the annular shoulder integral with shaft 8|. In such clamped relation of cutting wheels or tools 88 and 95, rotation of shaft 8| will cause bodily rotation of the cutting wheels 88 and 95.

1 tively.

: a fulcrum pin Integral with the casing or support I I and extending upwardly therefrom are the spaced and similar tracks or channeled bosses 33 and 91 (Figs. 3., 4 and each of which has a horizontal and longitudinal channel 98 for guiding bases 99 and IE3 of the standards or brackets generally indicated WI and E32 respectively each of which embodies a transversely disposed shoulder or step IE3 at one side of a reduced portion I04 having an overhanging lip I05 (Figs. 2 and 6a).

Each of the standards NH and I02 may be slidably moved longitudinally of the casing by loosening a respective clamping bolt 136 having its shank IBI disposed in a relatively larger or slightly elongated opening I118 (Figs. 6 and 6b) of an associated base while its lower portion I03 is threadably interconnected with threaded opening Illi of its respective track (Figs. 4 and 6).

Having unclamped the base of a standard from its track, the standard may be guidably shifted longitudinally of the casing and set to a new position within the limits of its associated enlarged or elongated opening I03 and pursuant to such adjustment the bolt I06 is tightened to clamp the base of the standard against its track.

Mounted on standard IGI are three juxtapositioned gages or guides III, H2 and H3 (Figs. 2, 6 and Ga) for cooperating with paracentric, relatively hat or thin, and barrel or bit keys respec- Gage MI is adjustable in respect to its standard IQI in the channel Elli (Fig. 2) const uted by shoulder I03, reduced portion I54 and ie overhanging lip I35 (Fig. 2). Gage Ill (Fig. 2a) comprises spaced openings H5 and H5 and 1e reentrant recess I'll. Recess I I? receives an annular flange H8 (Figs. 6 and 60:) fixed to the set screw 5 i3 whose shank is threadably connected to standard IGI. By rotating set screw H9, gage IIl may be slidably displaced transversely of its standard. Such displacement is guided by the aid of shank I23 of a set screw I2! fitting into the elongated opening I I6 of the body of the gage (Figs. 2a and (So). If therefore set screw E 3 is actuated, it will be apparent the forward portion !22 of gage I Ii may be disposed to overhang its adjacent shoulder I33 in varying degrees. Having slidably adjusted gage IN, the latter is set in such position by clamping the head of set screw EZI against resilient washer I22 and the latter against the reduced portion I04 of the standard to which the shank of set screw I2! is threadably connected.

Intermediate gage II2 has its perforated end H2 (Figs. 2 and 2b) sustained on shank I23 of I24 to which is fastened the T shaped gage I I3 which is provided With the rectangular head I25. Fulcrum pin I24 also passes through opening I5 of the adjustable gage I II (Fig. 2a) and is slidably guided in the elongated slot H5 of the reduced portion I64 in its associated standard. Rotatable fulcrum pin I24 has its shank E23 overhanging its standard and adjustably mounted thereon is the rotatable knob or manipulator wheel I26 which is utilized as a clamping member for holding the swingable gages I I and E I3 in a clamped operative or inoperative position. By the present arrangement it will be apparent that standard IOI may be adjusted to shift gages HI, I I2 and H3 bodily and lon itudinally of the casing upon loosening of clamping set screw I05 and when wheel I26 is unclamped the gages Iii, H2 and H3 may be bodily adjusted transversely of the casing by first unloosening set 22! and subsequently rotating the driving set screw H9.

With wheel I26 in an unclamped relation, it is appreciated that pin I24 may be shifted along the guide slot II5 of the standard. Since shank 23 of pin I24 fits into opening II2 of the swingable gage H2 and opening II5 of the gage III therefore any transverse displacement of the latter relative to the standard, will cause gages I I2 and H3 to be correspondingly displaced. In effect shank I23 serves as a bearing for the swingable gage l I2 which may be pivoted to a raised position and clamped or may be swung against shoulder I03 and clamped. Similarly when wheel 26 is unclamped, gage H3 may be swung to a raised position or disposed against shoulder I03. In the latter case shank I23 rotates relative to circular opening H2 of the swingable gage H2 and the standard and within elongated slot H5 in the latter.

According to the invention only gage member I30 is adjustably and swingably associated with standard Hi2 (Figs. 1 and l). Apropos gage III shown associated with standard IEI (Fig. 1), this gage may be considered as a plate when resting against shoulder I03 (Fig. 2) and forwardly overhang this shoulder (Fig. 1). In connection with the standard E32, a similarly actuated plate II I is shown but this plate is not used as a gage member and is just flush with the forward face of the standard H33 (Fig. 1). Otherwise it is identical in construction to gage III of standard Illi and is set and clamped by similar means identical to that shown in connection with standard ifil. Gage 530 as in the case of gage H3 is also fixed to pin I23 which is journalled and guided in an elongated slot IE5 in standard I62 and a rotatable clamping member 426 is utilized to clamp gage I30 in a set position, for example, in a gaging position as shown by the full lines in Fig. 4 or in an out of the way position illustrated by the dash and dot lines in Fig. 4.

With the present invention gage I I2 is utilized in connection with the cutting wheel 95 or 91 for cutting relatively thin keys. Gage II I is employed with cutter 89 for processing paracentric keys it being understood of course that a blank key is first set in vice D with respect to its cutter and subsequently the master key is so clamped in vice M that it is spaced from the blank key at predetermined distance equal to the distance between corresponding faces of its gage and companion cutting wheel.

Since the several gages III, H2, H3 and I30 may be adjusted transversely of respective standards, their terminals may be readily set to be in the desired alinement relative to the cutting edge of its companion cutting wheel.

With the present invention provision has been made for disconnectably coupling the front slidable and rotatable shaft I2 to permit the latter to reciprocate with the rear slidable support shaft 53. In such coupled relation the carriage may be automatically supported to dispose the key and key blank clamped in vices M and D against a gage and the companion cutting wheel. In this connection, a swingable clutch generally denoted i3! is employed. This clutch comprises a swingable cylindrical rod I32 pivotally mounted on pin I33 fastened to spaced ears I34 projecting from the lower rim of the casing.

Secured to rod I32 is a pin I35. This pin overhangs rod I32 and projects into guide slots I35 of a slidable plunger I31 having at its upper part a biased or cam shaped groove I38 adapted to receive the longitudinally disposed fixed rod I39 interconnecting the fixed jaws 39 of the vices M and D.

Cylindrical plunger I3! is also provided with an axially disposed bore I40 in which is arranged helicoidal spring I4I. This spring abuts the end of rod I32 and the upper wall of bore I40 and thus its tendency is to normally hold the plunger I38 elevated. In Fig. 3, two positions of the carriage are illustrated. In the dash and dot line position, clutch I3I is uncoupled from rod I39 and the carriage is in an open position. In the full line position however the carriageis shown closed and yieldingly locked, that is, the keys clamped in the vices have a longitudinal edge at right angles to the vertical planes of the cutting wheel and its associated gage. By the expression locked is meant that the reentrant groove I38 has received the fixed rod I39 and that inclined lip I42 constituted by the lower face of groove I38 prevents disengagement of rod I39 and the plunger due to the action of spring I II.

Having adjusted the blank key with respect to a desired cutting wheel and the master key in respect to its gage, the blank key may be cut to be conformed to the edge contour of the master key either by manually shifting the carriage by manually sliding the front shaft relative the casing when latch 34 is disconnected or the carriage may be automatically recip'rocated by throwing latch 34 into interlocking relation with the front shaft. When automatically driven the clutch I3I is coupled to the connecting rod I39 which is slidably guided in reentrant slot I38 as the carriage automatically reciprocates when the motor is driven.

With the power on and with the front and rear shafts latched together the carriage is yieldingly supported and retained by the clutch. In effect, the master key is a template and cooperates with its gage to permit the companion cutter to affect a corresponding contour of the master key into the blank key during reciproca tion of the carriage, the action of spring I4I of the clutch being such as to yieldingly urge thekey blank against the companion rotating cutter.

Having completed the processing of the previously blank key, the latch is disengaged orunooupled from the front shaft, and the clutch is disconnected from the connecting rod I39. The latter operation is effected by pressing downwardly on head I43 of the plunger against the resistance of spring MI, thus permitting lip I42 to be free of rod I39. Consequently the clutch is released and may be swung away from the casing after which the carriage is rotated or dropped to set the same in its full open position as shown by the dash and dot lines in Fig. 3 in which case access may be conveniently had to the master and the duplicated key for removal thereof from respective clamping vices.

As illustrated in'Figs. 1 and 2, a paracentric key P is clamped in the vices M and D. The key P clamped in vice M may be considered as the master or previously cut key and the key P inthe vice D is a blank or uncut key. These keys are so positioned on platforms or shelves 58. in vices M and D that their lips I3 are a predetermined distance apart which corresponds to the distance between corresponding faces of gage III and the cutter 95. In conforming the blank to the master key, gage I30 and cutter 80 are utilized in ually displacing the carriage longitudinally of the casing or automatically. In the former case, the carriage is lifted manually so that the blank key strikes'the cutter 80 until limited by gage I30 by a corresponding biting or groove in the master key. -Having completed cutting the blank to conform to one tooth of the master key, the carriage is slidably and manually displaced to the next biting or steps of the master key and the blankk'ey is again brought against the cutter 80 which cuts the second biting in the blank to conform tothe corresponding second biting in the master key under the influence of gage I30. In a similar fashion the other bitings of the master key may be cut in the blank key.

However manual control of the carriage may be eliminated and the carriage may be reciprocated automatically as previously pointed out after the master and blank keys are first positic-nod and subsequently clamped in their vices a predetermined distance apart. In this connection,the carriage is swung upwardly to present the keys before the required gage and cutter. The clutch is thrown to interconnect with connecting rod of the carriage. The keys therefore are yieldingly retained against the gage and cutter.' With the pulley rotating, the latch 32 is thrown downwardly and as the rear rod I3 recipr'ocates, latch 32 will ultimately interlock with the front shaft causing the latter and its carriage to reciprocate. During such reciprocation of the carriage, the cutting tool cuts bitings in the blank key according to the bitings of the master key due to the limiting action of the gage in cooperation with the bitings of the master key.

I-Iaving conformed the blank to the master key, latch 32 is swung upwardly and away from the front shaft. The clutch is disconnected from the carriage and the keys may be removed from the vices. It should be observed, however, the overhanging portion 41 of the gripping block 45 of the fixed jaw 39 of vice M serves as a stop or ledge cooperating with the associated gage to limit movement of the carriage towards the cutter under the influence of the spring controlled clutch in the event the terminal of the shank of the key has travelled beyond the gage during reciprocation of the carriage. 1

According 'to'the showing in Fig. 11 relatively thin and flat keys T are shown clamped in the vices M and D. First the key blank to be duplicatedis setinvice D. This key isset against and onthe spaced seatsor pins I9, while the slidable platforms 5'! and 58 are retained in retracted position (Fig. Subsequently this blank is clamped in its vice. The master or previously cut'key is then placed on pins '19 in vice M and arranged in such fashion that the distance between grooves I50 of the blank and master key correspond tothe distance between corresponding faces of the swingable and set gage H2 and the cutter 95. Held in a set predetermined position, the blank key may be cutby the aid of cutter 95 together with the master key T and gage I-I2 to conform the blank in accordance with the master key upon manual displacement of the carriage. In Fig. 11, the cutter '95 is relatively thin and requires external support; For this purpose it isfixedly attached to a coupling 91 threadably connected to clamping member 94. Cutter 95' cuts relatively narrow notches. W'here wider notches are desired, coupling 91, with its cutter may be conveniently removed, and the cutter 95 is employed.

The vices or clamps M and D of the herein described cutting machine may be utilized to conform bit or barrel key in accordance with a certain order of bitings of a master bit or barrel key. In Figs. 13-16 a master bit key B is arranged in vice M and a blank bit key B is clamped in vice D. First corresponding parts of the keys are placed a predetermined distance apart. This is accomplished by inserting the blank bit key in vice D so that a vertical face I5I of its tongue I52 is against the thin cutter 95. In such set position the blank bit key is clamped in the gripping blocks 45 and 49 (Fig. 16) of the vice or clamp D. Thereafter the master bit key is inserted in vice M in such fashion that face I53 of tongue I54 is against gage III. In such position the master key is clamped in vice D. Hence corresponding parts of the tongues of the master and blank bit keys are a predetermined distance apart. The carriage is then shifted step by step to permit the cutter 95 to conform the tongue I52 of the blank key to the contour of tongue I54 of the master key.

For conforming the tongues of a blank bit key to the tongues of a master bit key the T shaped gage H3 is swung to a horizontal position and clamped and a cutting wheel I55 is mounted on the exteriorly threaded clamping ring 94 (Fig. 15). Cutting wheel I55 is provided on its rim with teeth I56 which have effective cutting edges I51 and I58. The horizontal edges of teeth I56 are employed to cut face I59 of the tongue of the blank key to conform to the height of the tongue of the master key. In this connection the laterally extending head I25 of gage H3 is utilized as the gage or stop. The ends I51 of teeth I 56 of the cutting wheel I55 are also utilized to conform the sides of the tongues of the blank key to the master key. For example the tongue of the master key (Fig. 14) is provided with side notches which are also made in the blank key by utilizing the side cutting edges I51 and I58 of the cutting wheel I56 while the terminal portions I 6| of the lateral extensions I25 serve to limit the extent to which the blank key may be processed until it conforms to the master key.

Instead of employing a master key when processing a blank key, the present invention contemplates the utilization of a master template, generally denoted MT (Figs. 17-19). This master template is particularly useful when the bit combination of a master key is known but the latter may be unavailable or if available it is not desired to use the same. This master template comprises a plurality of angularly arranged rows of grooves or bitings designated respectively 0, I, r

2, 3, 4, 5 and 6. Each row may consist of five bitings or grooves, a, b, c, d and e. The bitings of each row have the same depth. For example, all the bitings, a, b, c, d and e of row 9 have the same depth, all the bitings a, b, c, d' and e of row I are of the same depth but slightly deeper than the bitings of row 9, those of row 2 are of the same depth and slightly deeper than row I, etc.

For each row of bitings there is provided a pair of openings I19 and III in the master template MT and the latter includes a relatively large central opening I13 adapted to loosely surround shank 53 of its manipulator 52 while a pair of openings I I0 and I'll removably cooperate with the spaced pins I9 of vice M to hold a respective row of teeth in proper position in advance of the gripping blocks 45 and 69 of vice M to cooperate with gage I30.

Where the combination of bitings of a master key is known, this combination may be applied to a blank key in the use of the herein master template. For example, if it is assumed, that this hypothetical combination is O, I, 2, 3 and 4 and it is desired to use the master template to conform the blank key in vice D, this combination when read right to left is 4, 3, 2, I, 0. The first biting on the master template therefore is on row 4, a, biting; the second on row 3, b biting; the third on row 2, c biting; the fourth on row I, d biting; and the last on row 5", e biting.

As in the case of the employment of a master key with a blank key which are always set apart a predetermined distance, the same holds true in the case of the master template and the blank key. In this connection the master template and the blank are clamped in the vices M and D a predetermined distance apart. However the master template is so rotated relative to shank 53 and subsequently positioned on the spaced pins 19 that bitings of row 9 are in advance of the jaws of its vice. Since the first biting of the combination is a, the a biting in row 4 is therefore used as a gage in the cutting of a corresponding biting in the blank key P which may be on either of the platforms 5? or 58 or the spaced pins I9 in vice D.

Subsequently, the jaws of vice M are un- I clamped, the master template is removed from pins 19, and rotated to position row 3 of the bitings in advance of the jaws of this vice. Again the master template is placed on pins 19 and the jaws of the vice are clamped. Biting b of row i 3 is then employed in the cutting of a corresponding biting in the blank key. Pursuant thereto, the master template is positioned and clamped in the vice until row 2 is in advance of the jaws and biting c of row 2'. is used as a gage for making a similar biting in the blank. In a similar manner biting d of row I and biting e of row 0 are employed in connection with conforming the blank to the remaining parts of the combination of bitings. It is therefore apparent that with the present invention even though no master key is employed, a certain predetermined combination of bitings may be cut in a blank key.

Again referring to the cutter 80, it will be apparent that since it is frictionally sustained by annular shoulder 86 and the terminal 89 of the supplementary bearing 8?, both of which extend into the gap defined by the spaced bearings and 90 when assembled, cutter 89 may be readily detached or assembled. required is to disconnect clamping member 9 3 from the threaded terminal of shaft 8| and the latter may be withdrawn from bearings 87 and upon the application of an outwardly directed force on the pulley.

With shaft 85 withdrawn, the support for the cutter 89 is removed. Consequently since this cutter is also unclamped, it may be readily removed from the gap, permitting the insertion of a new cutter therein or permitting the cutter to be reversed where it is desired to direct the cut chips in another direction.

The superimposed and shiftable platforms 5? and 53 of each of the vices of the carriage provide means for appropriately supporting keys having shanks of various widths and the serrated or toothed and tapering throat defined by the complementary gripping blocks constitute means for properly clamping barrel or bit keys.

In the case of standards IOI and I92 each of If assembled all that is the latter may be shifted longitudinally of the casing and clamped in a set position. The several gages on standard HJi may be simultaneously shifted transversely of the casing by first unloosening set screw 12! and associated clamping Wheel l26 after which set screw H8 is actuated to displace gage III which in turn by reasonof shank 523, gages I I2 and H3 are correspondingly displaced.

Gage I I2 is pivotally associated with shank 52d and if wheel I26 is unclamped, gage H2 may be swung relative to gage H3. By loosening wheel I26, gage H3 may be swung relative to either of the gages HI and H2 since its fixed shank I23 is also rotatably disposed in the elongated opening H5 of its standard.

The herein disclosed and described embodiments have given satisfactory results and it will be obvious to those skilled in the art after an understanding of my invention that other changes and modifications may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention and it is intended and it is to be understood that all matter containedin the above description and shown in the accompanying drawings, shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense.

I claim:

1. In a key cutting machine, a support having spaced bearings defining a gap, a cutter disposed in said gap, a rotatable shaft disposed longitudinally of said bearings and supporting said cutter, and bearing means in one of said bearings for clamping said cutter to bodily rotate with said shaft.

2. In a key cutting machine, a support having spaced bearings defining a gap, a cutter disposed in said gap, a rotatable shaft disposed longitudinally of said bearings and having a shoulder adapted to overhang one of said bearings to abut one face of said cutter, slidable means surrounding said shaft and adapted to abut another face of said cutter and means for clamping said slidable means against said cutter and said cutter against said shoulder to permit bodily rotation of said cutter with said shaft.

3. In a key cutting machine, a support having spaced members defining a gap, a cutter disposed in said gap, a rotatable shaft disposed longitudinally of said members and having a shoulder adapted to extend into said gap, means shiftable relative to said shaft, and means for frictionally clamping said shiftable means against the cutter and the latter against said shoulder to permit bodily rotation of said cutter With said shaft.

4. In a key cutting machine, a pair of spaced bearings defining a gap, a cutter removably disposed in said gap, a shaft for supporting said cutter and having a shoulder adapted to overhang one of said bearings and project into said gap, a slidable supplementary bearing member disposed in the other bearing of said pair and adapted to overhang said gap, spaced annular members mounted on said shaft, a cutter mounted on said shaft between said annular members, and means mounted on said shaft for clamping said second mentioned cutter between said annular members and said first mentioned cutter between said shoulder and said supplementary bearing member.

5. In a key cutting machine, spaced members defining a gap, a cutter disposed in said gap, a rotatable shaft for supporting said cutter, means projecting into said gap and slidably sustained within one of said members for frictionally and removably sustaining said cutter in said gap and against said shaft, and means for clamping said projecting meansagainst said cutter to permit the latter to bodily rotate with said shaft.

6. In a key cutting machine, a support having a rotatable and slidable carriage comprising spaced clamps having selective shiftable means for supporting a master member and a blank member, a rotatable cutter, .driving means for rotating said cutter, reciprocable means actuated by said driving means, a gage adjustable relative to said support, clutch means disconnectably associated with said reciprocable means for yieldingly holding said blank member against said cutter and said master member at times against said gage during reciprocation of said carriage, and disconnectable swingable means for locking said carriage.

7. In a key cutting machine, a support having spaced bearings defining a gap, a gage longitudinally and transversely adjustable relative to said support, a cutter in said gap, a shaft having an enlarged and reduced portion defining a shoulder adaptedto extend into said gap, a supplementary bearing surrounding said reduced portion and adapted to extend into said gap, means for clamping said cutter between said supple-- mentary bearing and shoulder to permit bodily rotation of said cutter with said shaft upon rotation of said shaft, a carriage having spaced clamps for removably supporting a grooved member and a blanked member, disconnectable means for yieldingly holding said carriage to position said blanked member against said cutter and said grooved member at times against said gage, and means for reciprocating said carriage during rotation of said shaft.

8. In a key cutting machine, a support, a gage adjustable relative to said support, a rod slidably guided by said support, a rotatable shaft, a cutter frictionally secured to said shaft, means for reciprocating said rod during rotation of said shaft, a member rotatably and slidably carried by said support, a carriage sustained by said member and comprising spaced vices for removably clamping a grooved and blanked member, a swingable clutch for holding said carriage elevated to dispose said blanked member against said cutter and said grooved member at times against said gage, and swingable coupling means carried by said slidably guided rod and having means for disconnectably interlocking with said member rotatably and slidably guided by said support during rotation of said shaft.

9. In a key cutting machine, a support, a gage selectively adjustable longitudinally and transversely of said support, a rod slidably guided by said support, a rotatable shaft, a cutter secured to said shaft, means for reciprocating said rod during rotation of said shaft, a member rotatably and slidably carried by said support, a carriage sustained by said member and comprising spaced vices comprising shiftable means for positioning a grooved and blanked member, a swingable resiliently controlled clutch for yieldingly holding said carriage elevated to dispose said blanked member against said cutter and said grooved member at times against said gage, and a latch swingably carried by said slidably guided rod and having means for interlocking with said rotatable and slidable member to reciprocate said carriage during rotation of said shaft.

10. In a key cutting machine, a rotatable shaft, a cutter mounted on said shaft, a carriage having spaced vices, shiftable means carried by said vices for sustaining a grooved member and a blanked member a predetermined distance apart corresponding to the distance between corresponding faces of said gage and cutter, means for yieldingly holding said blanked member against said cutter, and swingable means actuated upon rotation of said shaft for reciprocating said carriage relative to said gage and cutter.

11. In a key cutting machine, a support, a gage, means for adjustably sustaining said gage relative to said support, a rotatable shaft, a cutter frictionally connected to said shaft, a carriage having spaced vices for removably clamping a grooved member and a blanked member a predetermined distance apart corresponding to the distance between corresponding faces of said gage and cutter, means for reciprocating said carriage during rotation of said shaft, and swingable latching means for disconnectably coupling said carriage.

12. In a key cutting machine, a support having a track, a standard adapted to be guided longitudinally of said track, means for clamping said standard to said track, a plurality of gages displaceable transversely of said support and movably mounted on said standard, means for clamping said gages to prevent displacement thereof, and adjustable means cooperating with said gages for displacing the latter in an unclamped position thereof transversely of said support.

13. In a key cutting machine, a support having a track, a standard slidably guided by said support, means for adjustably clamping said standard to said track, a gage displaceable tranr versely of said support and movably mounted on said standard, means for clamping said gage to prevent displacement thereof relative to said standard, adjustable rotatable means interlocking with said gage to displace the latter transversely of said support, a plurality of juXtaposi tioned gages selectively swingable relative to said support, and means for clamping said plurality of juxtapositioned gages in a set position.

14. In a key cutting machine, a support having a track, a standard slidably guided by said support and longitudinally of the latter, means for adjustably clamping said standard to said track, a gage displaceable transversely of said support and movably mounted on said standard, means for clamping said gage to prevent displacement thereof relative to said standard, adjustable and rotatable means for displacing said gage transversely of said support, a plurality of juxtapositioned gages selectively swingable relative to said support, and means for clamping said plurality of juxtapositioned gages in a set position.

SAMUEL SEGAL. 

